Culture

Jews lived in Yemen for nearly 3,000 years, predating the Arab Islamic conquests by centuries, yet today fewer than 200 remain. Indigenous Jewish communities in Yemen emigrated in waves sighting various reasons for their departure. The unique culture of Yemenite Jews has been carried to countries around the world, and exists today in its delicious culinary traditions, its beautiful philigree silverwork, and its ancient spiritual and artistic Jewish practices. Despite cultural relics that Yemenite Jews have been able to preserve and share, with displacement came the endangerment of the authentic heritage of Yemenite Jews.

For this reason, JIMENA works to ensure that the cultural heritage of Yemenite Jews, and all Mizrahi and Sephardi Jews, will survive to benefit future generations. We have been leading unique Cultural Outreach Programming since our establishment in 2001, giving Sephardi and Mizrahi Jews a platform to celebrate and share their rich culture with diverse audiences throughout North America. JIMENA is dedicated to preserving and sharing Mizrahi and Sephardi culture through traditional celebrations, festivals, lectures, and cultural celebrations.